The new Palliative Care Unit at Wyong Hospital has been officially opened, marking an important milestone in the delivery of high-quality end-of-life care for the Central Coast community.
Delivered as part of the NSW Government’s $93 million capital investment in the World Class End of Life Care program, the new unit has been designed to provide privacy, comfort and dignity for people in the final stages of life, providing the highest standard of care and support close to home.
“The Minns Government is committed to ensuring people with life-limiting illnesses receive high quality end-of-life care at the right time, and in the right place,” said Health Minister, Ryan Park.
“This modern and purpose-built Palliative Care Unit at Wyong will provide comfort, dignity and compassionate care in what can be a very difficult time for patients and their families.”
The purpose-built unit is located in an existing building at the eastern end of the Wyong Hospital and features 12 palliative care bedrooms with ensuites, communal areas, meeting spaces and flexible outdoor spaces.
Developed in close consultation with local community members and palliative care staff, the facility has been tailored to meet the needs of patients, families, loved ones and the broader Central Coast community.
Central Coast Local Health District Acting Chief Executive, Jude Constable said the opening of the purpose-built unit was an important milestone for palliative care on the Central Coast.
“This will provide another care option alongside our established services at Gosford Hospital and in the community, ensuring people can receive the support that best meets their needs,” said Mr Constable.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the support of Elsie’s Project, whose contribution has helped create a more welcoming and comfortable environment for patients and families through additional furnishings, specialist equipment and enhancements to the unit’s outdoor spaces.”
Local community group, The Elsie’s Palliative Care Project, has made a generous contribution to the new unit, providing family and overnight room furnishings, specialist beds, garden enhancements and a range of additional amenities to help provide additional comfort and support for patients, families and carers.
“This new unit is a wonderful facility for the Wyong community and a great addition our region’s existing palliative care services, including the palliative care unit at Gosford Hospital and in-home services to meet individual and family needs,” said Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong, David Harris.
“People have different needs and preferences when it comes to end-of-life care. This new unit will provide greater choice for patients and families, while ensuring they remain connected to their loved ones and local support networks.
”I acknowledge Oana McBride for her vision and drive for enabling her friend Elsie’s dream to be realised and also the Elsie’s Palliative Care Project team for their tireless efforts.”
Key design elements include:
- Spacious bedrooms to accommodate visiting family members, featuring home-like interior finishes and large windows overlooking private gardens;
- Individual patient balconies, enabling patients to move outdoors on their bed to enjoy the garden;
- A large family room with dining spaces where family and visitors can gather and share meals;
- A landscaped garden, with existing mature trees retained to provide a natural outlook from patient bedrooms;
- A communal outdoor area that provides a private and reflective space;
- An overnight room to allow additional family members to stay close to their family.
The Wyong Palliative Care Unit was delivered by Health Infrastructure in partnership with Central Coast Local Health District and builder, Renascent Australia.
For more information about the World Class End of Life Program, visit hinfra.health.nsw.gov.au/projects/project-search/end-of-life-care-program.
